Ukrainian drones struck a major Russian shipyard in the Leningrad region, damaging a military icebreaker still under construction.
The target was a vessel from “Project 23550,” intended for the Border Guard of Russia’s security service, which could directly impact the country’s naval plans.
Reports indicate that the ship hit is the “Purga,” which showed visible damage after the attack, including listing and possible structural failures. Images also show the vessel coming into contact with another nearby ship, raising suspicions of hull compromise.
Designed to operate in the Arctic, Project 23550 ships combine military and civilian roles, functioning both as patrol vessels and icebreakers. Equipped with naval weaponry and prepared for extreme conditions, they are considered strategic assets in expanding Russia’s presence in icy regions.
By hitting the vessel while it was still under construction, the Ukrainian offensive could delay its delivery and generate additional costs for the Russian shipbuilding industry. The impact on the shipyard may also affect other projects, compromising timelines and the sector’s production capacity.
Source: Defence Blog | Photo: X @Exilenova_plus | U.S. Naval Institute | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
The photograph likely shows the Project 23550 patrol icebreaker “Dzerzhinsky,” the completion of which was planned to be transferred to the Admiralty Shipyards of the United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC).
Previously, the Admiralty Shipyards of the USC were considered a site for… pic.twitter.com/AnfckMmLF9
— Exilenova+ (@Exilenova_plus) March 25, 2026
